Mr. Speaker, I thank the Prime Minister for being here this evening. We appreciate it.
To be honest, we were looking forward to seeing him. We were wondering where he was. I realize he was affected by COVID‑19, so I am happy to see that he is well, but still, when there is a crisis, people expect a leader to be there, to send a strong, clear message. Unfortunately, that is not what happened over the past few days.
In the absence of a message, the protesters are getting the message that it is okay if they stay as long as they want, because nobody is saying anything and nobody is saying there will be consequences.
Does he not think this evening would have been a perfect opportunity to send the protesters a truly strong, clear message about what is going to happen next?
We all agree that people have a right to protest, but the way this particular protest has gained unbelievable momentum is stripping it of all legitimacy. What message should he have sent them this evening?